Touched by their interest and charity, Michael was so stupefied that he
could scarcely speak. When he recovered his self-control, he thanked
them all, and promised faithfully to do his best and always remember
their good advice.




CHAPTER III

ALFRED BANFORD


Alfred Banford had always been kind to the poor and dutiful and
affectionate to his mother. Suddenly he was seized with patriotic
fervor. For some time he had nursed the desire to be a soldier. At the
age of seventeen, he studied the art of warfare at a military academy.
He surprised all the officers with his military genius.

The Duchess, too, loved her fatherland, and at last she tearfully
recognized that she must give up her son to fight in defense of his
country.

"Go, then," said she, "fight for the right and your country; and may God
protect you."

Alfred fought valiantly and well, and at last was forced to proceed with
the great French army against Russia. On the way to Moscow the ranks
were greatly depleted, owing to the long, wearisome marches and